Surolan drops, 15 ml is a combination veterinary medicine from Elanco for treating external otitis and dermatitis in dogs and cats. Each ml contains the antifungal and antibacterial miconazole (23 mg), the antibiotic polymyxin B (0.53 mg) against gram-negative bacteria, and the steroid prednisolone (5 mg), which relieves inflammation and itching. The drops act on Malassezia yeasts, staphylococci, streptococci and Pseudomonas and help against ear mites. For otitis, apply 3–5 drops into each ear twice a day.
What it is and who makes it
Surolan was made by Janssen, then Novartis, and now Elanco. It's a prescription product containing an antibiotic and a corticosteroid. Besides ears, it's used on the skin for fungal and bacterial dermatitis and anal gland inflammation. It comes as a thick suspension that stays well in the ear canal.
Ingredients
| Substance (per ml) | Action |
|---|---|
| Miconazole nitrate, 23 mg | Against fungi (Malassezia, Candida, dermatophytes) and gram-positive bacteria |
| Polymyxin B sulphate, 0.53 mg | Antibiotic against gram-negative bacteria, including Pseudomonas |
| Prednisolone acetate, 5 mg | Relieves inflammation, swelling and itching |
How to use it
| Indication | Schedule |
|---|---|
| Otitis (fungal, bacterial) | 3–5 drops in each ear twice a day; continue for several days after symptoms clear |
| Ear mites (otodectic mange) | 5 drops daily for 14 days, in both ears |
| Skin | On affected areas twice a day |
Clean the ear with an ear cleaner before applying. After the drops, massage the base of the ear to spread the suspension along the canal. Chronic cases may need 2–3 weeks; if longer treatment is needed, the vet reviews the therapy.
Pros
- Triple action. Fungi, bacteria and inflammation, plus an effect on ear mites.
- For dogs and cats. One bottle for all pets in the home, as prescribed.
- Ears and skin. Helps with otitis, dermatitis and anal gland inflammation.
- Fast itch relief. Thanks to prednisolone, the animal shakes its head and scratches less.
- A proven medicine. Used by vets for decades.
Cons and what to keep in mind
- Not with a perforated eardrum. A vet checks that it's intact.
- Prescription medicine. An antibiotic and a steroid — without a diagnosis it can do harm.
- Twice a day. Requires discipline for the whole course.
- Doesn't replace cleaning. Drops work less well in a dirty ear.
- Small bottle. 15 ml may not last a large dog through a long course for both ears.
Why a vet exam is needed
Otitis can be bacterial, fungal, mite-related or allergic, and sometimes the cause is a foreign body (a grass awn) or a tumour. A vet examines the ear with an otoscope and takes a swab: under the microscope it's clear whether there are mites, fungi or bacteria. This determines the medicine and course length. If otitis keeps coming back, allergy is often to blame and needs treating too. A similar combination product in ointment form is Oridermyl.
Preventing ear infections
Check the ears weekly, clean them with an ear cleaner when dirty, and dry the ear canal after bathing and swimming. Dogs with floppy ears and hairy ear canals need care more often. More in how to clean a dog's and cat's ears and eyes and our Aurikap ear cleaner review.
Who it suits
Dogs and cats with external otitis caused by fungi, bacteria or ear mites, and with fungal and bacterial dermatitis — as prescribed by a vet. Other products are in eye, ear and skin care.
Verdict
Surolan is a proven combination drop against fungi, bacteria, inflammation and ear mites in dogs and cats. Use it after a vet has examined the ear, strictly as scheduled and to the end of the course.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many drops of Surolan per ear?
For otitis, 3–5 drops in each ear twice a day.
How many days to treat ear mites?
Per the instructions, 5 drops daily for 14 days in both ears.
Can Surolan be used on cats?
Yes, it's for dogs and cats.
Can it be applied to the skin?
Yes, on affected areas twice a day.
When must Surolan not be used?
With a perforated eardrum or hypersensitivity to its ingredients.
Can I stop once the itching is gone?
No, continue for several days after symptoms disappear.
